Green Vehicle Procurement Policy
Issue: Ensuring a Sustainable Future
Target Level of Office: Local
Policy Origin: City of Jersey City Council, New Jersey
Link: www.YEONetwork.org/2013policy/?i=216
Summary Narrative of the Policy: This is a two-part ordinance that includes language for a
“Green Product Procurement Policy” and a requirement for the purchase of green alternative
fuel vehicles for the City’s fleet of municipal vehicles.
Relevant Talking Points & Important Information:
• Global warming emissions from the transportation sector can be reduced by increasing
the production and use of clean, highly efficient vehicles powered by sustainable low
carbon fuels and electricity, and by better designing communities to include accessible
and convenient alternatives to driving.
• This ordinance ensures that Jersey City is being environmentally and economically
sustainable. This policy builds a fleet of city vehicles that is designed, constructed, and
operated to use resources efficiently and minimize waste. The goal is not to increase cost,
but rather to encourage efficient and sustainable operating procedures while keeping
long-term financial costs down for the city and taxpayers.
• Utilizing green procurement policies ensures that the city remains competitive and
leads by example by investing taxpayer dollars in the best, most cost-efficient green
technologies and products available.
Eco-Passes: Subsidized Public Transportation Benefits
Issue: Ensuring a Sustainable Future
Target Level of Office: Local
Policy Origin: Santa Clara Valley Transportation Valley
Link: www.YEONetwork.org/2013policy/?i=217
Summary Narrative of the Policy: In 1996, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority
(VTA) introduced the Eco Pass program, which provides discounted annual transit programs
to participating public and private sector employees as well as students within Santa Clara
County. Holders of an Eco Pass have unlimited access to VTA’s regular bus and light rail service
seven days a week. Eco Passes are deeply discounted below the standard cost of passes,
thus making it an attractive, low-cost benefit or university amenity. Eco Passes are now also
available to residents.
Relevant Talking Points & Important Information:
• The VTA Eco Pass is a less stressful way for Santa Clara County employees and residents
to commute. Eco Passes are purchased by employers, universities, and private colleges to
give their employees and/or students unlimited rides on VTA Bus, light rail, and Express
Bus Service seven days a week.
• The Eco Pass program provides employees and students with the opportunity to reduce
their travel costs while providing an efficient means of commuting, while decreasing
traffic congestion, improving air quality, and reducing parking demand.
Policy
2014 Book
Local Level
41